Tshipise Reserve – Bow Hunting
Tshipise Reserve is privately owned and managed since 1974 by a family who is passionate about Africa and its wildlife and who are pioneers in the South African conservation industry. The reserve is in excess of 55,000 acres of continuous wild Africa which is home to four of Africa’s Big 5 (Buffalo, Elephant, Leopard and White & Black Rhino) and is carefully managed to ensure that the reserve maintains its natural ecological integrity. With Mopane and Acacia shrub, huge mountains, massive Baobab trees, dry riverbeds, with open plains areas that has more than 8,000 head of game.
Why Tshipise Reserve is the ultimate bow hunting destination: Best time to Bow hunt in South Africa:
Planning a bow hunting safari in South Africa? Timing and location are key to a successful hunt. While South Africa offers some of the finest hunting on the continent, the dry winter months from June through October provide the best conditions for bow hunters — especially at Tshipise Reserve, a private concession known for abundant plains game, permanent bow blinds, and free-roaming Big 5 species.
Why June to October is the best time for Bow Hunting in South Africa
South Africa’s winter season, beginning in June, is cool, dry, and ideal for bow hunting. Here’s why these months are preferred:
- Dry terrain means wildlife is drawn to waterholes — perfect for ambush setups.
- Sparse bushveld vegetation improves visibility for stalking and shot placement.
- Cooler daytime temperatures allow longer hunting sessions from blinds or on foot.
- The dark moon phase during this time encourages more daytime game movement, increasing shot opportunities.
Tshipise Reserve: Built for serious Bow Hunters
Located in the Limpopo Province, Tshipise Reserve is one of the few areas in South Africa truly tailored for dedicated bow hunting.
Purpose-built Bow Hunting blinds
With permanent bow blinds positioned at high-traffic watering holes, hunters enjoy daily close-range encounters — ideal for ethical bow shots.
Big Game and Dangerous Game
Tshipise is home to four of Africa’s Big Five — Elephant, Buffalo, White & Black Rhino, and Leopard — creating an authentic African hunting atmosphere. For bow hunters interested in dangerous game, this is one of the few places where it’s possible under expert guidance.
Abundance of Plains Game
The reserve offers exceptional plains game bow hunting, with a high density and wide variety of species, including:
- Baboon
- Blue Wildebeest
- Common Duiker
- Eland
- Giraffe
- Greater Kudu
- Impala
- Nyala
- Red Hartebeest
- Sable Antelope
- Warthog
- Waterbuck
- Zebra Burchell’s
- Zebra Hartmann
…and more. With daily movement to water and open terrain, hunters have consistent shot opportunities across multiple species.
Guided by expert Professional Hunters
At Graham Sales Safaris, you’ll hunt with experienced Professional Hunters who specialize in bow hunting techniques — from blind setups to stalking strategies and post-shot tracking. Every hunt is tailored to your skill level and trophy goals.
Why American Bow Hunters choose Graham Sales Safaris?
We’ve guided hundreds of U.S. bow hunters through unforgettable African hunting experiences. From helping you choose the right equipment to organizing permits and trophy logistics, Graham Sales Safaris handles it all with professionalism, ethics, and unmatched local knowledge.
Book your Bow Hunting Safari in South Africa today
The best time to bow hunt in South Africa is June through October, and Tshipise Reserve offers the ideal environment — abundant game, expertly placed blinds, and skilled guides. Don’t miss the opportunity to hunt with one of South Africa’s leading Safari Outfitters
The greatest hunting challenge you can experience
The thrill of the hunt is only emphasised when your weapon of choice is a bow. Africa is the ideal hunting location when you are using your bow to take down some of Africa’s toughest game. Bow hunting in Africa or South Africa is one of the most challenging and rewarding styles of hunting but it is one worth indulging in when you have a passion for the sport and you want to be closer to your target .
Graham Safaris offers bow hunting Safaris allowing the hunter the opportunity to take most of South Africa’s species in their natural habitat. In South Africa, bow hunting is permitted using one of three kinds of bows: the recurve bow, the longbow, and the compound bow. Of these three bows, it is the compound bow that remains the most popular among avid bow hunters. The compound bow is easier to use when hunting game, especially in South Africa where the game can be a lot craftier than in other regions of the world.
The right draw weight for that perfect shot
Bow hunting is not as easy as it looks, which is partly why it is a challenge. And because of the challenge it poses, it is important to make sure that you have the right bow as well as the right draw weight. The weight of the draw of the bow will differ depending on the game that you are pursuing.
With your average plains game such as Impala,Nyala,Kudu, the minimum weight you are looking at is between 50 lbs to 65 lbs. While this is the minimum requirement, it is all dependent on your skill and your ease with the draw, keeping in mind that you need to keep a steady hand while also being flexible enough to move with your target.
Keeping the minimum weight in mind, you might be more comfortable with a 60lbs or 80lbs draw. Before you set out to hunt with a bow, make sure that you know which weight works best for you. It is recommended that you spend time practicing before you hunt with a bow. Being comfortable and having some practice will ensure that all important arrow placement is not missed. You don’t want to track a wounded animal; a kindly placed kill shot is what you are looking for. Placement of the shot is also important in terms of whether or not you will be wanting to take a trophy home.
Choose the right arrow to accompany your bow
Removable blades, fixed blades and expandable blades, these are the three arrowheads available for bow hunting in South Africa. They are the three blades proven to be the most effective for hunting African game. As with bow styles and draw weights, the arrow heads that you choose are completely dependent on your preferences and your comfort.
Bow hunting changes from area to area. South Africa, along with Mozambique and Zambia, is a land with of a variety of different, and often tough, terrains and vegetation which is in places dense. All of this is taken into account when you are bow hunting with our team. As experts in bow hunting, as well as experienced and passionate hunters, we want you to get the most out of your experience. Get into contact with us and enjoy this different style of hunting.
Frequently Asked Questions (Not pertinent to GSS)
What species can be hunted with a bow on Tshipise Reserve?
Bow hunting in South Africa and Africa can be done for a variety of game species, including Baboon, Black-backed Jackal, Blue Wildebeest, Cape Buffalo, Common Duiker, Eland, Gemsbok, Giraffe, Kudu (Southern Greater), Impala, Klipspringer, Nyala, Red Hartebeest, Roan Antelope, Sable Antelope, Steenbuck, Tsessebe, Warthog, Waterbuck and Zebra (Burchell’s and Hartmann’s).
What is the best time of year for bow hunting in South Africa and Africa?
The best time of year for bow hunting in South Africa and Africa can depend on a variety of factors, including the specific game species being hunted and the region being visited. However, as a general rule, the dry season is considered the best time for bow hunting as the animals are easier to spot and the vegetation is less dense. In South Africa and much of southern Africa, the dry season typically runs from May through October. In East Africa, the dry season typically runs from January through March and from June through October. It’s important to note that the best time for bow hunting can vary depending on the specific species being hunted. For example, some species may be more active or more visible during the wet season, while others may be more active during the cooler months.
What type of bow and arrow setup is recommended for bow hunting in South Africa and Africa?
The type of bow and arrow setup recommended for bow hunting in South Africa and Africa can depend on the specific game species being hunted and the hunter’s individual preferences. However, most outfitters recommend using a compound bow with a draw weight of at least 50 pounds, and arrows with a weight of at least 400 grains. It’s also important to use quality arrows with sharp broadheads that are appropriate for the game species being hunted. Some outfitters may also recommend using a mechanical broadhead, which expands upon impact to increase the size of the wound channel.
Is bow hunting in South Africa and Africa safe?
Yes, bow hunting in South Africa and Africa can be safe as long as hunters follow proper safety protocols and work with a reputable outfitter. It’s important to receive proper training and practice shooting with your bow before embarking on a hunting trip. Hunting guides and outfitters can also provide additional guidance and safety tips. During the hunt, it’s important to always be aware of your surroundings and to communicate effectively with your hunting guide. It’s also important to adhere to all local regulations and to only hunt in designated areas.
What is the success rate for bow hunting in South Africa and Africa?
The success rate for bow hunting in South Africa and Africa can vary depending on a number of factors, including the specific species being hunted, the hunting method used, and the skill of the hunter. However, with proper preparation and guidance from experienced guides and outfitters, bow hunters in South Africa and Africa can achieve high success rates.
Bow Hunters
Broadheads: No mechanical heads
Arrows: Plains Game 500 grains (min) | Buffalo – 750 grains (min)
Long: Plains Game – 60lbs (min) | Buffalo – 80lbs (min)
Recurve: Plains Game – 55lbs (min) | Buffalo – 75lbs (min)
Compound: Plains Game – 50lbs (min) | Buffalo – 75lbs (min)
Weights have been calculated on 27″ draw lengths. Add 10lbs to the bow if you draw less. We recommend a min of 500 – grains arrows on plains game; less than 450 – grains is prohibited.
Let us know if you need assistance with importing your weapons, we are happy to help.
Tshipise Reserve is without a doubt one of Southern Africa’s
prime conservation areas.
